Should passengers and crewmembers wait to inflate their life vests until they have exited the aircraft after ditching in water?

Passengers and crewmembers should indeed wait to inflate their life vests until they have exited the aircraft after ditching in water. This guideline is emphasized for safety reasons. If life vests are inflated while still inside the aircraft, they can create a significant hazard. There is a risk that inflating the vest can hinder movement within the confined space of the cabin, making it difficult to escape.

Additionally, if the aircraft is submerging, inflated life vests can cause individuals to get stuck in their seats or struggle against the structure of the aircraft, further jeopardizing their ability to evacuate safely. Therefore, it is vital to only inflate the life vest once outside the aircraft, where it can provide buoyancy and aid in staying afloat in the water. This approach enhances the chances of a safe and orderly evacuation for both passengers and crew.